Should I use margin for this trade, or wait until I have cash?
Check What's True For This Trade
Check every statement that's true for this specific trade, right now, before you borrow to place it.
Your Result
Check the statements that apply and click Check My Trade to see if margin makes sense here.
How this is calculated
Each checked box adds one point toward margin readiness, out of 8 possible points.
A score of 7 to 8 reads as Go: your reasoning, math, and exit plan for using margin on this trade are in place.
A score of 4 to 6 reads as Wait, Missing Steps: identify the unchecked items, usually the interest cost, the margin-call price, or a repayment plan, and fill that in before borrowing.
A score of 0 to 3 reads as No-Go, Wait for Cash: several core pieces are missing, and borrowing to take this trade is not ready as it stands.
This is a self-check on your own decision process, not a prediction of whether the trade wins or loses. Margin changes what a loss costs you, not whether you'll have one.
Risk & liability disclaimer: This tool is an educational self-check checklist only. It is not financial, investment, or tax advice, and it does not predict whether any specific trade will win or lose. Margin trading involves additional risk, including the potential to lose more than your initial deposit and forced liquidation by your broker. Trading Habits is not a broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, or tax professional, and is not affiliated with any broker, exchange, or data provider. Always verify results independently and consult a licensed professional before making any trading or financial decision.
Borrowing to Trade Deserves Its Own Checklist
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